WFA National Cup Regional Semi-final

What a lovely evening to stage our WFA National Cup Regional Semi-final against a strong Over 50's Godalming side and for the first time on the hallowed 4G of the Focus Community Arena.

The game was played in the true spirit of walking football and both sides played some entertaining football without creating any real chances. Hemel dominated possesion and both keepers were called into action without any real cause for concern. The referee controlled the game well, but just before half time after several warnings, a blue card was given to Mark Gunnell leaving Hemel with five men to see out the rest of the half unscathed.

The second half started pretty much like the first half with Hemel dominating the ball but without causing Godalming too many problems. Pat Corregan was brought on in a change for Hemel and shortly afterwards with a strong shot, which the keeper got a hand to, couldn't prevent the goal which broke the deadlock to put Hemel into a well deserved lead.  The game then settled down a little, although Corregan did have another good opoortunity to double the lead, but his shot was well saved by the diving Godalming keeper.  At the other end Dave Bradbury was having a great game in goal saving several shots to keep a clean sheet.  Half way through the half Godalming received a blue card and for a few minutes we again upped the tempo and dominated possession.  However, Hemel did increase their lead with a fortunate passage of play.

A Godalming shot cannoned of Corregan deep in the Hemel half, which bounced kindly to Barry Crane who was unmarked up front with plenty of time and space to bury the ball into the back of the net.  Another lovely passage of play saw Hemel increase their lead again. Jim Holmes worked his way down the right wing and from a very tight angle put the ball under the keeper and in off the far post. 3-0 and cruising.

With just minutes to go, Godalming did score a consolation goal and Hemel were able to manage the game for a comfortable 3-1 win.  

The Regional Final awaits with the winners of Barnet or Concord Rangers the opponents.

Squad: Dave Bradbury, Matt Toms, Paul Lowe, Mark Gunnell, Nick Brand, Pat Corregan, Jim Holmes, Barry Crane, Pete Cooper